What are the two types of jackknife?

The two types of jackknife primarily refer to the situations involving the trailer and the tractor. In the context of commercial driving, a jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out to the side relative to the tractor, creating a "V" shape. This can happen for various reasons, such as sudden braking or sharp turns, impacting the stability and control of the vehicle combination.

When referring to the two types, the terms "trailer jackknife" and "tractor jackknife" describe the specific scenarios in which either the trailer or the whole combination of tractor and trailer is involved in a jackknife situation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for drivers to be able to identify and prevent such situations, which can be dangerous and lead to accidents.

Recognizing the mechanics behind how a trailer can become unstable while being towed by a tractor gives drivers insight into how to manage their vehicle effectively and maintain safety on the road.